Traffic Commissioner Public Inquiry January 2021 Cambridge
Chris Powell represented a traction-only haulage company that had been called to a Public Inquiry Hearing with the Traffic Commissioner. Although the business had not been operating long, a DVSA Vehicle Examiner Investigation had uncovered a number of problems with the business’ maintenance arrangements. Regular roller brake testing had not been carried out and there were problems with the company’s daily defect reporting procedures. The company had also applied to increase its fleet despite these ongoing problems.
Following the DVSA investigation, the company had worked hard to try to improve matters and had put in place a number of new procedures and systems.
The company was represented at the hearing by Transport Solicitor Chris Powell who outlined to the Traffic Commissioner the improvements that have been made since the Vehicle Examiner’s visit. Future commitments were also made to ensure that regular, laden roller brake testing took place on every safety inspection.
At the end of the hearing, the Traffic Commissioner decided to curtail the fleet by one vehicle for a period of fourteen days. He also directed that any future application to increase the fleet must be accompanied by a satisfactory transport compliance audit.
This case demonstrates how important it is to act early to address problems following any DVSA intervention. Suitable roller brake testing arrangements are a particular area that the Traffic Commissioners will focus on.